Cosmetics comprise a range of products that are used to care for the face and body or to enhance or change the appearance of the face or body. The products include skin care, personal care, cosmetics and fragrance.
There is a vast array of cosmetics available. Each sub-category of cosmetics has its own characteristics, however the products are generally formulated using a mixture of chemical compounds derived from natural sources or created synthetically.[1]
Cosmetics have at least one of three purposes. They can be used to cleanse, such as shampoo, body wash and face cleanser do. They can be used to replenish and protect the skin, like toners, serums, moisturisers, and balms. Or they can be used to enhance one’s appearance, such as makeup. Often enhancing appearance can occur as a result of cleansing or healing the body.
People more commonly think of cosmetics as makeup, and these products include lipstick, mascara, eye shadow, foundation, blush, highlighter, bronzer, primer and several others. However, the legal definition of cosmetics in most countries is broader.
